CHEMICAL PEELS

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Chemical peels can reduce wrinkles, blemishes, acne scarring, and uneven skin tone. A Chemical peel can be mild or very strong. Many of the mild chemical peels can be done at home.

Chemicals Used In Chemical Peels

The chemicals used in chemical peels are:

• Retin-A (mild)
• Glycolic acids (mild)
• Alphyahydroxy acids (mild)
• Trichloroacetic acid (medium)
• Phenol (strong)

Risks Associated with Chemical Peels

Risks that are possible with chemical peels:

• stinging
• redness
• dryness
• irritation
• burn
• infection
• scarring
• swelling
• variations in pigmentation
• allergic reaction

NOTE: The stronger the chemical, the higher the risk for complications.

Strengths of Chemical Peels

• The mild chemical peel removes only the top layer (epidermis) of the skin. The results are subtle but will give the skin a healthy glow.
• The medium-depth chemical peel works on the dermis (under the epidermis) to work on facial lines and variations in pigmentation. The treatment takes 30-60 minutes and can be done on skin other than just facial skin. It is very hard on the skin and takes 7-10 days to recover from this procedure. One peel is usually all that is needed.
• The strongest chemical peel treats the deepest layer of skin that is safe to treat and is very punishing to the skin. It treats very deep wrinkles, very blotchy areas, and very sun damaged areas. The peel is done after regional nerve blocks are given for anesthesia. The chemical is absorbed and can be damaging to the heart, kidneys and liver. During the procedure, the patient's heart must be monitored. A bandage mask is worn for 2 days after the procedure.

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